Route 1, also known as US-1, runs all the way from Key West, Florida to Fort Kent, Maine. That means quite a few states have access to the road. But, if you’ve ever seen the portion of the road that passes through Maine you’ll agree that we have it pretty good up here. You see, there’s something about the forest, rocky coast, and small businesses that dot the road that make us pretty sure the best part is right here! Take yourself on a drive to see it and be sure to use these stops as your waypoints.
For full driving directions from your own location click here.
Google Map / Edits by Only In Maine
- The Pier & Palace Playland, Old Orchard Beach
Scott Linscott / Google Oh, the summertime fun that awaits at this Maine institution. You’ll find it hard to simply spend a few hours here, so you might want to add this onto a larger trip. Or, swing by for some quick Pier Fries and a ride on the Sea Viper!
- The Wedding Cake House, Kennebunk
Gina Oberfoell / Google You’ll need to make a slight detour to drive by this beauty, but it’s worth it. Built to look just like the tiers of a wedding cake, this piece of architecture looks good enough to eat.
- Freeport Outlets, Freeport
brant_kelly / Flickr You’ll be driving right by so you might as well at least browse, right? It’s not your fault if you get back in the car with more bags than will fit in the trunk. This is a great stop, even if you don’t plan on shopping. Stroll the streets, get yourself a hot dog and a lemonade from one of the carts and head back to the car to continue on.
- Frosty’s, Freeport
Jamie Roszel / Google One quick thing before you go! Make sure you grab a coffee and something sweet from this beloved Maine donut shop. They even have an option that allows you to create your own donut toppings!
- Maine Maritime Museum, Bath
Maine Maritime Museum / Google Maine’s maritime history starts right here in Bath and there’s no better place to learn about it than at this fantastic museum. It’s right near the water, so you’ll get a good feel for all things nautical.
- The Norumbega Inn, Camden
Norumbega Inn / Google If you plan on making this a weekend trip (and you should!) you’ll need a place to stay. To add a dose of something special, book yourself a stay at this historic castle-like home. The rooms are gorgeous and the grounds are fantastic.
- Red Barn Baking Company, Lincolnville
MaineGuy777 / TripAdvisor By now you’re probably ready for another snack so get ready to pull over once again for something delicious. Red Barn has lots of different choices, plus you can spend some time browsing the collection of antiques.
- Camden Hills State Park, Camden
Lee Whitmore / Google Now that you’ve fueled up with some treats, head to the great outdoors. This beauty is one of the best state parks in Maine. First, it’s located in a beautiful area. Second, the trails here vary from simple to longer and more challenging. Finally? Those views! This place is a beauty even if you choose to simply drive to the top of Mt. Battie and down again.
- Big Chicken Barn Books, Ellsworth
Matthew Graubner / Google How does one explain a book and antique store hiding in plain sight within a former chicken-coop? Well, I suppose just like that! If you love to unearth treasures, this is a necessary stop.
We’re pretty lucky here in Maine. Between US-1 and all the other things to see here, there are plenty of road trips to enjoy. One of our favorites? The Ultimate Maine waterfalls road trip. It’s right here and you’ll want to do it!
Google Map / Edits by Only In Maine
Scott Linscott / Google
Oh, the summertime fun that awaits at this Maine institution. You’ll find it hard to simply spend a few hours here, so you might want to add this onto a larger trip. Or, swing by for some quick Pier Fries and a ride on the Sea Viper!
Gina Oberfoell / Google
You’ll need to make a slight detour to drive by this beauty, but it’s worth it. Built to look just like the tiers of a wedding cake, this piece of architecture looks good enough to eat.
brant_kelly / Flickr
You’ll be driving right by so you might as well at least browse, right? It’s not your fault if you get back in the car with more bags than will fit in the trunk. This is a great stop, even if you don’t plan on shopping. Stroll the streets, get yourself a hot dog and a lemonade from one of the carts and head back to the car to continue on.
Jamie Roszel / Google
One quick thing before you go! Make sure you grab a coffee and something sweet from this beloved Maine donut shop. They even have an option that allows you to create your own donut toppings!
Maine Maritime Museum / Google
Maine’s maritime history starts right here in Bath and there’s no better place to learn about it than at this fantastic museum. It’s right near the water, so you’ll get a good feel for all things nautical.
Norumbega Inn / Google
If you plan on making this a weekend trip (and you should!) you’ll need a place to stay. To add a dose of something special, book yourself a stay at this historic castle-like home. The rooms are gorgeous and the grounds are fantastic.
MaineGuy777 / TripAdvisor
By now you’re probably ready for another snack so get ready to pull over once again for something delicious. Red Barn has lots of different choices, plus you can spend some time browsing the collection of antiques.
Lee Whitmore / Google
Now that you’ve fueled up with some treats, head to the great outdoors. This beauty is one of the best state parks in Maine. First, it’s located in a beautiful area. Second, the trails here vary from simple to longer and more challenging. Finally? Those views! This place is a beauty even if you choose to simply drive to the top of Mt. Battie and down again.
Matthew Graubner / Google
How does one explain a book and antique store hiding in plain sight within a former chicken-coop? Well, I suppose just like that! If you love to unearth treasures, this is a necessary stop.
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Address: Palace Playland, 1 Old Orchard St, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, USAAddress: 104 Summer St, Kennebunk, ME 04043, USAAddress: L.L.Bean, 95 Main St, Freeport, ME 04032, USAAddress: 45 Main St, Freeport, ME 04032, USAAddress: Maine Maritime Museum, 243 Washington St, Bath, ME 04530, USAAddress: The Norumbega, 63 High St, Camden, ME 04843, USAAddress: Camden Hills State Park, 280 Belfast Rd, Camden, ME 04843, USAAddress: 47 Bay View St, Camden, ME 04843, USAAddress: Big Chicken Barn Books, 1768 Bucksport Rd, Ellsworth, ME 04605, USA
